Cubs Have Offers Out to a Free Agent Starter and Reliever and Working on Trading for a Hitter

Theo Epsteinaddressed the media on Wednesday afternoon and said the Cubs have offers out to a free agent starter and a free agent reliever. Epstein also indicated the Cubs have a trade proposal on the table to add a hitter to the roster. The Cubs’ President of Baseball Operations did not elaborate on the players or the offer but did add the team has “other trade talks ongoing.”

Epstein discussed his meeting with Mark Rodgers, the agent for Jeff Samardzija. Epstein called the talks with Samardzija “amicable.” Epstein added a trade is no imminent with Samardzija and nothing fundamental has changed in their contracts talks with him.

Jeff Samardzija has been informed of three options: A trade, sign extension or stay on the team for now. Epstein added that Samardzija is the Cubs’ Opening Day starter as it stands right now.

Theo Epstein reiterated the fact the Cubs would like for Jeff Samardzija to sign a long-term extension and remain a Cub “for a long time.”

The Cubs have been linked to free agent relievers Mitchell Boggs, John Axford and Joba Chamberlain. On the starter front, free agents Scott Baker, Jason Hammel and Roberto Hernandez are reportedly on the Cubs’ list. As for a possible trade target, the Cubs are thought to be looking to add a lefty bat to the mix.

The Cubs are waiting to see if Masahiro Tanaka will be posted. If he is, the Cubs will be involved in the process.